Guwahati: One of India’s pioneering boxing champions, L Sarita Devi, has said that every visit to Guwahati revives memories that shaped her illustrious career. The former world champion from Manipur was recently in the city to take part in the Sundays on Cycle programme under the Fit India Movement.
“Guwahati has always been special to me. I have some fond memories here,” Sarita told The Assam Rising, recalling her gold medal win in the 52kg super flyweight category at the Asian Women’s Amateur Boxing Championships. She narrated how she battled severe stomach pain ahead of the final against China’s Ren Cancan but refused to give up, eventually winning the bout and the championship.
Also Read: Private Initiative Brings Clean Drinking Water to Biswanath Ghat Village
Inspired by Muhammad Ali, Sarita rose from helping her family in agricultural work to becoming a global boxing icon. Her career highlights include a world title at the AIBA Women’s World Championships, five Asian Championship gold medals, a silver at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, and a bronze at the 2014 Asian Games.
Now running the Sarita Regional Boxing Academy in Manipur, she has also expanded into grassroots women’s football with her husband, Thoiba Singh, to support young girls lacking facilities. Emphasising resilience, Sarita advised young athletes to remain patient, humble, and focused. Praising the cycling initiative, she said such programmes encourage fitness and help reduce pollution.
